By Maile Matsimela

The Department of Land Reform and Rural Development has announced an exciting opportunity for aspiring and established farmers in South Africa’s Gauteng province. Applications are now being accepted for the lease of prime agricultural property located in the City of Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality.

The available land, described as Portion 29 and Portion 30 of the farm Buffelsdrift (No. 281 JR), spans 18.7754 hectares and offers a versatile agricultural setup. The property features 5.35 hectares of irrigated land, complemented by 13.4254 hectares of natural veld and existing buildings.

According to the department, this initiative aligns with South Africa’s National Development Plan 2030, which emphasises sustainable agricultural development and land reform. The department further says this is a significant step toward empowering previously disadvantaged communities in the agricultural sector.

Property details and farming potential

The Buffelsdrift property is specifically designated for Category 3 lessees – farmers with an annual turnover between R1 000 000 and R10 000 000. The land is particularly suited for vegetable production as a primary enterprise, with small stock farming as a secondary operation.

Agricultural experts note that the combination of irrigated land and natural veld makes this property ideal for diversified farming operations. The existing infrastructure provides a solid foundation for newcomers to establish productive agricultural enterprises without starting completely from scratch.

Eligibility requirements focus on inclusivity

The programme specifically targets previously disadvantaged populations, with eligibility limited to South African citizens who are African (including persons from the first nations of South Africa), Indian or Coloured. Applicants must be at least 18 years old and possess a valid South African bar-coded identity document.

In line with national development goals, priority will be given to women and youth applicants. The department has emphasised that successful applicants must be committed to residing on the farm full-time for the duration of the lease contract.

Furthermore, candidates should have genuine farming experience and demonstrable commitment. The department says at least three to five years of farming experience will be considered an advantage in the selection process.

Application process and requirements

Prospective lessees must complete the official application form and attach all mandatory supporting documents. These include:

Certified copy of the applicant’s barcoded South African ID (for natural persons).
Unabridged legal entity registration certificate, resolution appointing the representative, and share register (for juristic persons).
Signed declaration confirming the applicant is not a public servant or public office bearer.

Shortlisted candidates will need to submit a business proposal/plan and provide proof of livestock branding certificates registered in their name. They must also demonstrate access to necessary farming resources, including capital, equipment, biological assets, and mechanisation.

Furthermore, shortlisted applicants will attend farm orientations and evaluation interviews. The department says they’ll verify their farming machinery, equipment and livestock to ensure they have the resources needed for success.

Skills development support

In a notable commitment to sustainable farming, the department will provide skills assessment for successful candidates to identify any knowledge gaps. These will be addressed through targeted training programmes to ensure lessees have the necessary skills to manage their agricultural enterprises effectively.

Application deadline

Interested farmers have until 14 July 2025 at 16:00 to submit their applications. All applications must be hand-delivered to the Department of Land Reform and Rural Development offices at 7th floor, Suncardia Building, 524 Corner Stanza Bopape and Steve Biko, Arcadia, Pretoria.

Application forms can be downloaded from the department’s website (www.dlrrd.gov.za) or obtained from the nearest DLRRD office. For additional information, prospective applicants can contact Tsepo Mashigo (012 337 3683/060 886 1525), Lethabo Shaba (012 337 3723/083 400 5874), or Zibusiso Cele (012 337 3679/079 891 4355).